These ships disappeared in Lake Superior a century ago. Watch as they’re found again
The Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society (GLSHS) has made significant strides in maritime archaeology by locating two of the three ships that sank during a fierce storm on Lake Superior over a century ago. This remarkable discovery not only sheds light on the tragic events of November 1913, when a brutal storm claimed the lives of many sailors and vessels, but it also highlights the ongoing efforts to preserve and understand the Great Lakes’ maritime history. The first ship, the SS Bannockburn, was located in 2021, and the second, the SS James Carruthers, was discovered in 2022. Both ships were part of a fleet that faced the tempestuous waters of Lake Superior, which is notorious for its unpredictable weather and treacherous conditions.
The storm of 1913, often referred to as the “Big Blow,” was one of the deadliest maritime disasters in the history of the Great Lakes, resulting in the loss of 12 ships and over 250 lives. The GLSHS’s discoveries are particularly poignant as they provide a tangible connection to this harrowing chapter in maritime history. The SS Bannockburn, a steel freighter, was found at a depth of approximately 530 feet, remarkably well-preserved due to the cold, fresh waters of Lake Superior. The ship’s discovery has not only excited historians and maritime enthusiasts but has also sparked renewed interest in the stories of the sailors who braved the storm. Similarly, the SS James Carruthers, a bulk carrier, was located in a separate expedition, further enriching the narrative of the Great Lakes’ shipping industry during the early 20th century.
These finds underscore the importance of ongoing underwater exploration and preservation efforts in the Great Lakes region. The GLSHS has emphasized the need for continued research and documentation of shipwrecks, which serve as important archaeological sites that can provide insights into the past. With the support of modern technology and dedicated teams, the society aims to locate the final ship from the 1913 storm, the SS Hydrus, which remains elusive. As these underwater treasures are uncovered, they not only contribute to our understanding of maritime history but also serve as a memorial to those who lost their lives in the unforgiving waters of Lake Superior. The GLSHS’s work is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Great Lakes and the stories that lie beneath their surface, waiting to be told.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yJkrAQ6SSsw
The Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society has found two of three ships that sank in the same Lake Superior storm more than a century ago, locating one in 2021 and the other in 2022.
